47RE Rebuild Guide: Dodge Cummins 4-Speed Auto

The 47RE is Dodge's 4-speed auto behind 1994-2002 Cummins 5.9L. It's strong but has known weaknesses. Here's the rebuild guide.

Quick spec

• 4-speed automatic with OD and TCC
• ~500-600 ft-lb stock capacity
• 1994-2002 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 (Cummins)
• 1994-2002 (gas applications 47RH)
• ATF+4 fluid (~17 quarts capacity)

Common 47RE failures

1. Direct clutch wear

• Most common
• Stock has 4 frictions, HD upgrade adds more
• Read our transmission shudder vs slip

2. Overdrive clutch wear

• OD-specific apply pack
• Heavy with HP or tow

3. Front pump bushing/seal

• Converter wobble damages
• Read our 4L80E pump bushing (similar concept)

4. Governor pressure sensor failure

• Wrong shift timing
• Often replaced with HD aftermarket

5. Read our 47RE/48RE direct clutch HD upgrade

Rebuild parts needed

• Master rebuild kit (all frictions, steels, seals)
• HD bands
• Filter and gasket
• ATF+4 fluid (~17 qts)
• Possibly new torque converter (HD recommended)
• Read our transmission parts buying guide

HD upgrade path

• BD Diesel HD rebuild kit
• Goerend or ATS HD packages
• HD billet input shaft (race)
• HD TCC apply piston
• HD bands
• Read our Sonnax explained

Rebuild cost

• DIY parts: $800-$1,500
• HD DIY parts: $1,500-$2,500
• Shop standard: $2,500-$4,000
• HD shop rebuild: $3,500-$5,500

Pair with mandatory upgrades

• Aux cooler (Cummins makes heat)
• Read our diesel cooler sizing
• Trans temp gauge
• Read our transmission temperature monitoring
• Deep pan
• Read our deep transmission pan

47RE vs 48RE (later version)

• 48RE = 2003-2007 Cummins (stronger)
• ~750 ft-lb stock vs 47RE ~500
• Many parts interchange but verify

Operating practices

• Warm trans before tow
• Use lockup only at appropriate speeds
• Service every 30,000 miles tow
• Read our diesel tow rig setup

After rebuild

• Light break-in 500 miles
• Verify all shifts
• First service at 2,000 miles
• Read our transmission rebuild break-in

Need 47RE rebuild parts? Shop our complete catalog. Master rebuild kits, HD upgrades, Cummins-specific solutions. Free shipping over $70.

Related:

• 47RE/48RE direct clutch HD upgrade
• Diesel tow rig setup
• Transmission fluid types